A hidden woodland waterfall tucked into a Coillte forest near Mitchelstown, reached via a rewarding 5.3 km loop that mixes quiet country roads, forest tracks, and riverside paths.
Ballard Waterfall cascades through a rocky gorge on the Muchnagh River. A spur path with wooden stairs, safety spikes and handrails leads to a timber viewing deck at the base — a secluded spot where you can dip your toes in the natural pool or just soak up the sound of falling water.
A 5.3 km waymarked loop (blue arrows on white background) that starts and ends at Mountain Barrack car park. The route follows quiet country roads before turning onto a boreen, crossing a metal bridge into the woods, then descending to the waterfall. After the waterfall, a zig-zag climb brings you back out to the road for the final 1.5 km back. Allow about 1 hour 30 minutes.
The Muchnagh River is home to otter, salmon, brown trout, brook and river lamprey — all important for conservation. The mixed-species woodland supports a rich variety of flora, fauna, and the usual woodland animals. Keep your eyes peeled along the river sections.
Open sections of the trail offer fine views across the surrounding countryside to Skeheen Mountain (298 m), a local landmark east of Glentalucky Mountain. Best appreciated on clear days from the higher parts of the loop.
The waterfall area is said to have been a hiding place for the Irish highwayman William (Willie) Brennan, who was hanged in the early 1800s and immortalised in the ballad 'Brennan on the Moor', famously recorded by The Clancy Brothers.
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